The Ford Escape is an all-around reliable vehicle that’s worth the price, whether you buy it new or used. It’s known for its exceptional handling and user-friendly controls, which lets you maximize all of its features. It has a considerable resale value, depreciating around 31% after five years according to CarEdge.com.
Are Ford Escapes Reliable?
According to RepairPal, the Ford Escape ranks 16th out of 26 compact SUVs, with a 4 out of 5 rating. The Escape is known for its exceptional safety features, pleasant interior, and superb handling, which was further enhanced in the 2020 redesign. Your Escape’s mileage can average from 200,000 to as much as 320,000 as long as you maintain it regularly.
The Ford Escape is known for its exceptional safety features, pleasant interior, and superb handling, which was further enhanced in the 2020 redesign. Image source: Ford
Top Ford Escape Problems
Despite being a reliable SUV, the Ford Escape does have some common problems, depending on its model year. Here are the most well-known issues:
Brake Issues
The 2016-2017 Ford Escapes were notorious for excessively noisy brakes. A technical service bulletin (TSB) was released in 2016 concerning brake squeal, which usually happens when the front brakes have warmed up. It can also be caused by different driving conditions. Ford has said that this can be remedied by installing a front lining kit.
Aside from brake noise, Ford issued another TSB for 2017 Ford Escape brake problems concerning the lit electric park brake warning indicator as well as an anti-lock brake system (ABS) lamp illuminated for four-wheel drive (4WD) variants. The diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) were provided in the TSB along with instructions on how to resolve these issues.
Suddenly Stopped Working Due to Transmission Failure
Multiple Ford Escape owners have reported that their SUV suddenly stopped when it was working just fine minutes before. For some, their vehicles suddenly stopped while they were driving with no warnings or symptoms. Most have reported that they’ve encountered Ford Escape transmission problems with the 2014 and 2006 model years. Some owners have also reported that they had to get their transmissions rebuilt or replaced to resolve the problem, but it cost them a lot, around $4,000 or more, depending on parts and labor.
Engine Fires
The 2013 Ford Escape is known to have multiple problems, including engine fires. Ford did a series of recalls within months from its release. The July 2012 recall was so extreme that Ford advised all owners to simply park their SUVs and sent over tow trucks to get them. Ford said this was due to a faulty fuel line that had the tendency to split and leak, which increased the risk of fires, putting both driver and passengers in danger.
Later that November, another recall was issued for the 2013 Ford Escape, once again due to engine fires. The Escape, along with other Ford models, was reported to have inadequate cooling systems, which could leak and trigger a vehicle fire once flammable fluids came in contact with the high-temperature exhaust system.
Ignition Misfire
Another common problem with 2001-2013 Ford Escapes is ignition misfire due to bad ignition coils. Some owners have reported that all that’s needed is an ignition coil replacement. This also means that you should follow your service schedule, so that the problem can be diagnosed sooner rather than later. Leaving it unaddressed may lead to further damage of other components, which means more costly repairs or replacements.
Power Steering Loss
The NHTSA investigated 746,067 units of 2008-2011 Ford Escapes due to loss of power steering assist while driving. Ford said this was caused by inefficient configurations with the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system that stopped the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) from detecting the driver’s steering input. Many SUV owners found this annoying on long drives since it would require more steering effort at lower speeds. Ford said that this problem can be fixed with a PSCM update that can be done at your dealership.
2005 Ford Escape owners have reported unexpected engine failure, with many saying that their SUV would unexpectedly shut down while driving. It occured so frequently that Ford recalled units of the 2005-2008 Escape in 2014 due to powertrain failure caused by overheating, which would lead the vehicle to stall.
The 2005 Escape’s power control module (PCM) also malfunctioned once the SUV reached 100,000 miles. However, the standard warranty only covered up to 80,000 miles. Most of the SUV owners who had this problem were 20,000 miles past the mileage limit. Some owners have reported that they resolved the PCM issue by replacing affected components including spark plugs, coils, cylinders, and the actual PCM, but it cost them an average of $2,000 worth of repairs to get their SUV working properly again.
Many users have reported that they’ve encountered Ford Escape transmission problems with the 2014 and 2006 model years.
Transfer Case Damage
4WD Ford Escape models are notorious for abnormal noises coming from the transfer case. Some owners have reported that these sounded like bearing howling, which turned into clicking sounds as the SUV accelerated. These unusual sounds can mean that the transfer case may have sustained damage from regular use, so it’s recommended to have these noises immediately checked by a professional. Some owners have reported that changing the transfer case fluid or the transfer case resolved this problem.
Where to Get Auto Parts and Accessories for Your Ford Escape
Don’t let the issues above keep your Ford Escape cooped up in the garage. Resolve them immediately to continue going on road adventures and save yourself from repairs that could pile up over time. For high-quality auto parts at prices that won’t break the bank, shop online at CarParts.com.
We source our Ford Escape components from trusted manufacturers in the industry to ensure they’re built to last. But that doesn’t mean they’ll have you going over budget. They come with a low-price guarantee to help you get the best value for your money.
Use our vehicle selector to view compatible replacement and performance parts. Then, adjust the search filters to narrow down the selection to the products that match your preferred brand, price range, and features. If you have questions, give us a call using our toll-free hotline, and our round-the-clock customer service team will be ready to assist you.
Order what you need today to restore your Ford Escape’s top-notch performance in no time!
Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.
The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
Hello to all members. I drive a 2010 Ford Escape XLS and has a slight problem and need correct information. I live part-time in a remote are in Mexico and there is no Ford Dealership around.
I recently replaced the front brake pads brand new. After about two weeks later the ABS, Parking brake light and the skid light (on the dash board) comes on and off all the time. I've asked around and some people say it's the module and possibly the sensors. My question is if I keep on driving will it be a problem? Will the brakes suddenly seize up causing and accident? Would I be able to drive the vehicle until I can get her to a qualified mechanic?
All input will be highly appreciated.
Thanks,
Andries
Hello Andries,
My guess is that the brake job you did is unrelated to the warning lights you're now seeing. The fact that all three of those warning lights are on hints at a problem within the ABS system, rather than a problem with the friction brakes. Still, you don't want to take any chances with your brakes. If you have access to a code reader that can retrieve ABS codes, you can pull the codes to get an idea of the problem area. Also, check the brake fluid level just in case (it's doubtful that a low fluid level would cause your problem, but you want to check it anyhow to be safe). And definitely get the car repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Thank you very much for your response.
2009 ford escape 3.0 4dr. not hybrid. starts fine, runs for a while, and then at idle dies.
Hi Mark,
There are many potential causes for your concern. Do any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) set when the problem occurs?
no codes, and nothing on the OBD tester,,,
when I try to keep the vehicle running from idle by tapping on the throttle when it starts to stutter or the rpms start to vary, it keeps running and this worked for over 35 minutes. It died when I wasn't quick enough to hit the throttle. but most of the time it would start right back up again. sometimes I'd have to wait several minutes but it always starts back up
Does your OBD tester provide live data? If so, what are the short-term fuel trim (STFT) and long-term fuel trim (LTFT) readings when the problem occurs?
it doesn't, but we have an appointment with a local tech to conduct that test in the near future. However, after thoroughly cleaning both the MAFS and the Throttle Body, as well as resetting the computer, the vehicle ran flawlessly for over two hours under constant stop and go conditions in town here. thankyou !!!:)
Great! I'm glad you got it fixed!
hello, do you know about the 2021 Escape Titanium reliability?
Hi Matt,
We haven't looked into the 2021 model yet. Perhaps some other readers will chime in.
I have a 2010 2.5 escape it was fine then on the way home the wrench light came on and it died started up again after a few minutes then it happened again and now it won't start at a any one have any idea whats going on with it would be amazing
Hello Stephen,
Have you tried checking the vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)? That might give you an idea of where to begin your troubleshooting process?
Having an intermittent problem on my 2021 Ford Escape SEL. Getting a motor hum that seems to be recycling. Hums, stops, hums. Noise happens all the time card is running. Dealership looked at it and wanted me to leave it. Made appointment and just before appointment hum went away. The humming started again so made another appoint and the hum stoped the day before the appointment. Does anyone have an idea as to what is causing this electric motor hum? It is not any of the seat adjustments, front/back, lumber, up/down, seat back. Help....
Having several issues with my 2017 ford escape. can anyone help
View Comments
Hello to all members. I drive a 2010 Ford Escape XLS and has a slight problem and need correct information. I live part-time in a remote are in Mexico and there is no Ford Dealership around.
I recently replaced the front brake pads brand new. After about two weeks later the ABS, Parking brake light and the skid light (on the dash board) comes on and off all the time. I've asked around and some people say it's the module and possibly the sensors. My question is if I keep on driving will it be a problem? Will the brakes suddenly seize up causing and accident? Would I be able to drive the vehicle until I can get her to a qualified mechanic?
All input will be highly appreciated.
Thanks,
Andries
Hello Andries,
My guess is that the brake job you did is unrelated to the warning lights you're now seeing. The fact that all three of those warning lights are on hints at a problem within the ABS system, rather than a problem with the friction brakes. Still, you don't want to take any chances with your brakes. If you have access to a code reader that can retrieve ABS codes, you can pull the codes to get an idea of the problem area. Also, check the brake fluid level just in case (it's doubtful that a low fluid level would cause your problem, but you want to check it anyhow to be safe). And definitely get the car repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Thank you very much for your response.
2009 ford escape 3.0 4dr. not hybrid. starts fine, runs for a while, and then at idle dies.
Hi Mark,
There are many potential causes for your concern. Do any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) set when the problem occurs?
no codes, and nothing on the OBD tester,,,
when I try to keep the vehicle running from idle by tapping on the throttle when it starts to stutter or the rpms start to vary, it keeps running and this worked for over 35 minutes. It died when I wasn't quick enough to hit the throttle. but most of the time it would start right back up again. sometimes I'd have to wait several minutes but it always starts back up
Does your OBD tester provide live data? If so, what are the short-term fuel trim (STFT) and long-term fuel trim (LTFT) readings when the problem occurs?
it doesn't, but we have an appointment with a local tech to conduct that test in the near future. However, after thoroughly cleaning both the MAFS and the Throttle Body, as well as resetting the computer, the vehicle ran flawlessly for over two hours under constant stop and go conditions in town here. thankyou !!!:)
Great! I'm glad you got it fixed!
hello, do you know about the 2021 Escape Titanium reliability?
Hi Matt,
We haven't looked into the 2021 model yet. Perhaps some other readers will chime in.
I have a 2010 2.5 escape it was fine then on the way home the wrench light came on and it died started up again after a few minutes then it happened again and now it won't start at a any one have any idea whats going on with it would be amazing
Hello Stephen,
Have you tried checking the vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)? That might give you an idea of where to begin your troubleshooting process?
Having an intermittent problem on my 2021 Ford Escape SEL. Getting a motor hum that seems to be recycling. Hums, stops, hums. Noise happens all the time card is running. Dealership looked at it and wanted me to leave it. Made appointment and just before appointment hum went away. The humming started again so made another appoint and the hum stoped the day before the appointment. Does anyone have an idea as to what is causing this electric motor hum? It is not any of the seat adjustments, front/back, lumber, up/down, seat back. Help....
Having several issues with my 2017 ford escape. can anyone help